More information : (TF 72534255) Roman Signal Station (R) (Site of) (1)
Rectangular structure on Beacon Hill, Thornham, TF726425, first
discovered from air photographs in 1948 and interpreted at that
time as a small Roman fort or signal station, with visibility
across the Wash. (2-4)
Roman pottery was found on the surface, and an excavation in 1952
revealed two Samian sherds, a dupondius of Pius, Castor ware and
other Roman pottery. (5-6)
Further excavations in 1960 by Rainbird Clarke uncovered Necked
Beaker sherds, flint scrapers, and Iron Age sherds, but showed that
the main period of occupation was early Roman and native in character,with at least three huts defended by a palisade, dated by imported wheel-made pottery to the period circa AD 40 to 60. About mid-1st century the palisade was superseded by a rampart and ditch enclosing a sub-rectangular area re-interpreted by Clarke as probably a native fortification erected after the Boudiccan revolt. (This
interpretation is accepted by the Scole Committee). The ditch
was of blunted V-profile, up to 18 feet deep, and the chalk from it
was used to construct a rampart 35 feet wide, extending over some
of the earlier huts which were removed by burning.
Occupation after this was on a very small scale until the late 2nd
century when the fortifications were systematically demolished,
and the only trace of occupation after AD 200 is a few 4th century
coins.
Later use of the site is represented by a 7th century Anglo-Saxon
inhumation cemetery within the enclosure. Twenty-four burials have
been found, with grave-goods (now in Norwich Museum) including
knives, bronze buckles, a bronze bracelet, beads and a hanging-bowl
escutcheon. (7-8)
The earthworks at this site are vague and the 25" surveyed features
do not tie in with the features visible on St Joseph's APs. The
profile has been greatly disturbed by excavations however. The site
is arable and at present under crop of young wheat. No surface
finds were made. (9)
Discussion of excavations carried out by RR Clarke including some re-interpretation. (10)
Earthwork on Beacon Hill - OS Field Examiner records that the feature is still exant but is now planted with trees. (11)
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